MPUMALANGA – Two individuals are facing serious legal action following a Mpumalanga rhino horn and firearm arrest on the N12 highway. Law enforcement officers from the Middelburg Flying Squad intercepted a suspicious vehicle late Wednesday night, recovering illicit wildlife products and unlicensed weapons ahead of a scheduled court appearance at the Witbank Magistrate’s Court.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, at approximately 23:45. While conducting routine patrols along the N12 route connecting Ogies and Kendal, police officers identified a silver Toyota Etios bearing Mpumalanga license plates. Due to the suspicious nature of the vehicle, authorities initiated a traffic stop and conducted a thorough search of the car and its two occupants.
During the inspection, officers discovered a black jacket strategically draped over two rhino horns and a pair of hunting rifles. A further search of the vehicle’s interior yielded additional rounds of ammunition hidden inside.
Following the seizure of the illegal items, the two occupants were immediately taken into custody. Police officials confirmed that the suspects are slated to appear before the Witbank Magistrate’s Court in the near future. They will answer to formal charges encompassing the illegal possession of rhino horns, alongside the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Law enforcement continues to emphasize its commitment to combating wildlife crime and illegal arms trafficking across the province.
